Finally...Safe (& Green) Cookware!

Are you concerned about non-stick cookware? Maybe some of you are not even aware of the health risks. If you are not aware, non-stick cookware contains perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), a synthetic chemical used in production that creates a soap-like slipperiness and non-stick finish. I have known the risks for years, and switched to stainless steal pans long ago. But I must admit, I hung on to one or two of my non-stick pans for cooking eggs and French toast. I was careful not to heat them past "medium", however not everyone in my house did the same...my hubby does not always pay close attention to those little details.

It just takes one or two times overheating your non-stick pan to burn it, leaving it not so non-stick anymore. More importantly, even on lower heats, these pans are known to "off gas" dangerous chemicals and heavy metals into your food and into the air. I don't know about you, but I don't buy grass-fed beef and organic veggies with the intention of spicing them up with toxins. What's the point of buying healthy food if you aren't preparing it in the healthiest manner possible?

We try to eat a lot of raw,organic foods throughout the day. But when I am cooking, I want to know that I am still doing my very best to keep it healthy and safe for my family. I have been doing some research lately and I discovered a line of cookware that may just be exactly what I have been looking for. I discovered it on Dr. Mercola's website. Not only was I very impressed with the cookware offered, but also with this website. A lot of very valuable information about health was presented, and in a manner that was easy to understand.

Of all the options out there, I am very excited to try Mercola cookware. After hearing the information presented on the site, I think this cookware is a best buy. I was aware of the leaching in non-stick cookware, yet I was not as educated on some of the other options. I was surprised to find that my high-end stainless steel cookware could possibly be leaching a variety of heavy metals. And my tea kettle? Also a high probability that it is leaching!

What is a mom to do? Well...her best, of course. So now that I have found Mercola cookware, I think I just might be making the switch. Check out Dr. Mercola's website for more information.

Here's to your health!

Is There Lead In Your Balsamic?

Have any of you read the fine print on the back of your balsamic vinegar bottle and found this Prop 65 warning: This product contains lead, a chemical known to the State of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm.

I discovered this warning a couple years back, and have checked labels on my vinegar ever since. I have looked at several brands in big chain stores and health food stores alike. I just could not seem to find a balsamic that does not contain lead.

When researching this a little, I found that some claim that the lead occurs because of the processing of the vinegar and some say that the grapes absorb it from the ground during the aging process. Either way, it seems that we are just supposed to accept the fact that there is lead in our balsamic vinegar. So what about red wine vinegar? I have seen some warnings on them as well. And what about red wine? How are we to trust that there aren't levels of lead found in more aged products? Are they being tested? We worry about lead in our children's toys. Must we now worry that we are tossing lead into our salads as well?

Some of my readers know, and some may not know that I am pregnant with our second child. Exciting! The last thing I want to do is jeopardize the health of this unborn baby. And studies show that there are no safe levels of lead. Even a small amount can cause birth defects and other problems. After searching the Internet for a bit last night, I came across a company that states that it's vinegars are guaranteed to be lead free. I have yet to try this brand, but I am certainly going to. I am always searching for the highest quality, most natural products out there, so I just had to share this with you all as well.

Now, Prop 65 was issued by the state of California, so only brands regulated in that state will have this warning. However, even if your vinegar does not have the warning, it likely contains lead.

Lucini Italia is the brand I just discovered. Go to www.lucini.com and check their store finder to see where you can pick up a bottle of their fine vinegars and other products.

Here's to your health!

Go Flourless!!

Okay, so maybe you have tried sprouted grain bread and you didn't really like it. It may be fine for some people, but you aren't quite ready to make the switch. It's a bit dense, and kind of grainy, you say? Well, compared to the Wonder Bread we were raised on, you're right. But....

I want to try to convince you to try sprouted grain again. Are you willing to give it one more try? The first time I ate sprouted grain bread, I thought it was awful. I didn't eat it again for many years. Now it is the only type of bread I buy. Why? It is highly nutritious, low in digestible carbs, and low-glycemic. AND it tastes great!

Before you decide that sprouted grain bread is not for you, let me tell you that there are many more options out there than you might know about. Ezekiel bread by Food For Life is technically the "original". It is probably the most nutritious as well. But it is not the only brand available. Many other companies are offering sprouted grain choices.

I must say this...I think the key to eating sprouted grain bread (with the exception of the tortillas) is browning it, whether in the toaster, toaster oven, or pan. With that, here are my top picks for sprouted grain You will be surprised at just how delicious they are, and who knows? You may be ready to trade that Wonder Bread just yet.

First, you just have to try Ezekiel sprouted grain English muffins. They are 100% flourless, but you would never guess it. I promise you won't be disappointed with these. They toast up very nicely, with little nooks and crannies for your favorite spread to sink in. Crispy on the outside when toasted, yet nice and gooey center...yes, they are 100% flourless! You may also want to try Ezekiel hamburger and hotdog buns.

Another favorite-spouted grain tortillas. Ezekiel tortillas are more dense and grainy. I like to dip them in hummus. They are good, but they fall apart quite easily. My new favorite tortilla is from French Meadow. They are 100% flourless, and again, you would never guess. They are soft and pliable, making them great for quesadillas and wraps.

Try this with a French Meadow tortilla: Heat one up in a saucepan or tear one in half and warm it in the toaster. Melt a pat of butter or a bit of coconut oil over the warm tortilla, add a little agave nectar and cinnamon, then roll it. A bit reminiscent of a churro. Yum!

This last recommendation is for Alvarado Street breads. I have tried many of their varieties and have loved them all. My two favorites are the Essential Flax Seed, and the Sourdough. The Sourdough is fantastic for sandwiches, and it yields a delicious French Toast!

With so many options to choose from, why not try them all and see which you like best? Sprouted grain breads and tortillas are high in fiber and protein, and they are a living food, with the grains coming together to give you optimum nutrition in a bread. Is it time to go flourless?

Here's to sprouted grain and here's to your health!

FREE SHIPPING on CLEAN WELL!

It's Back To School time and to help you stock up on hand sanitizers, CleanWell is offering free shipping until August 15th! Click HERE to get the code for free shipping.

Here's to healthy kids!

Quick Beauty Tip

The next time you slice open a yummy avocado to spread on a sandwich or add to your salad, don't throw the rind away just yet. Scrape out that last bit and moisturize! That's right. Avocado not only has essential nutrients for your insides, but amazing benefits for your skin as well.

Try this: Simply rub a bit of avocado into your hands, feet, or anywhere you need extra moisturizing. Then rinse excess with a little water, and pat dry. Your skin will be nourished, and will feel super soft and supple.

When it comes to skincare, nature always provides the absolute best! Here's to healthy skin, and here's to your health!

Campaign for Safe Cosmetics : Just Launched: The Story of Cosmetics

You have read it here many times...there are toxic chemicals all around us. I have touched on the subject of cosmetics and have reviewed just a few of my favorite healthy choices for cosmetics, and will continue to do so. Here is a great little clip that breaks it all down for us. And you can make a difference by making your voice heard. Click on the link below to watch The Story of Cosmetics.

Campaign for Safe Cosmetics : Just Launched: The Story of Cosmetics

What Is A Baby Carrot?

Ever wonder where baby carrots come from? Well, I hadn't either until I came across a link about them. Ah, the Internet. Such a plethora of information out there. Well, a while back I started a series of posts I call, Every Day Toxins. One of the toxins I have highlighted is chlorine. I will continue to post information about chlorine and ways to keep a chlorine-free home.

This link is not about chlorine. It is about baby carrots. But I mentioned chlorine because it is part of the process for non-organic baby carrots. They are soaked in a chlorine solution before packaged. Now, I must note that it is a low concentration of chlorine in the water and it is widely accepted as a safe and effective way to disinfect. However, it does makes me very glad I choose organic. Anyway, the following link is kind of an interesting little history on baby carrots. Lately I have just been sticking to the larger ones. They generally cost less, stay fresh longer, and pack more nutrition. But there is nothing wrong with baby carrots. They are sweet and yummy, and quite perfect for dipping!

http://www.carrotmuseum.co.uk/babycarrot.html

Here's to veggies and here's to your health!

Tube Your Lashes!

Every girl has stories about her first experiments with makeup. I remember a classmate in high school who was known for constantly adding layers to her mascara throughout the day. It was like she only had five eyelashes by the end of the day. She was a bit obsessed with it I think! When I met her my freshman year, I had never worn mascara. She took one look at my lashes and begged me to let her put a little on me. I agreed (to just one coat). I was a bit nervous, but one look in the mirror, seeing how my eyes just popped...I loved my new look. Now I just had to convince my mom!

Have dark circles under your eyes? Well, it might not be just lack of sleep. The pigment used in some mascaras can bleed and deposit right into your skin. Years ago, I heard that cosmetic companies use coal tar in mascara. Yuck! I started looking for a natural formula. I have since done some research and I cannot seem to get a clear answer. Is there tar in mascara? Some sources say that the tar myth is simply that, a myth. Others report differently. Well, I will have to continue in my research and report back to you later. For now, I will recommend a great product I've found that definitely does not contain coal tar, and does not run!

If you know me well, you know that I have been accused of wearing false lashes, on more than one occasion. It is a blessed genetic gift bestowed by my dad. Ah, but don't worry. The scales were evened out, as I also inherited his feet! With this burden of long lashes to bear, I am a bit picky about choosing a mascara. I have tried lots of different brands through the years, and when I went all-na-tu-ral with my makeup, the natural mascaras did not do much to impress me. They were okay, but just did not have the performance of some of the more popular brands. I've gone back and forth between different brands, trying to find one that looked great and didn't contain all the chemicals.

In my search for natural mascaras, I have found most of them just don't seem to have the stay power a girl is lookin' for! Now I am using blinc (formerly Kiss Me) mascara. This is such a cool product! You put the mascara on and it forms little tiny tubes around your lashes. To remove, you just use warm water and apply a little pressure. No makeup remover needed. No rubbing your eyes and no irritation.

What I love about this product is that it really stays put. While I don't purposely wear makeup for workouts, I sometimes exercise in the evening when makeup is already on from the day. I can be dripping with sweat and my mascara does not run. And the ultimate test for us ladies...a good cry-yes, it passed that test as well. I'm not talking about a few tears here either. I have had a total sobbing fit and this mascara stayed in tact.

But when it comes time to take it off? Piece of cake. Just use warm water, apply a little pressure and the tubes come off. It is a little strange at first...almost looks like you are pulling your lashes out. Oh, and best of all, I never get those yucky glops of mascara sleep gunk in the corner of my eyes. Ladies, you know what I'm talking about!

Okay, so I wish I could say that this product is absolutely natural. It does NOT contain tar, but it does have a couple ingredients that are on my no-no list. Despite this, I am giving it a pass, because once this mascara dries, it is DRY, and the product does not continuously get deposited into your skin. The mascara is a little tricky to work with at first. If you are picky like me, you want your lashes to look just so. When using blinc mascara, just have your eyelash comb ready to go to get the look you want. If you want to apply more than one coat, it needs to be done before it dries, not after. When it dries, it is set. While the packaging says it does not flake, I have had a tiny flake here and there (very tiny) during hot and humid weather. But this is by far, the best performing mascara I have tried.

Although this is a healthy-living blog, this post was more about sharing a favorite exception to the rule. While I live my life looking for the healthiest products out there, once in a while I find a happy compromise, and this is the case with blinc mascara.

So, here's to fabulous lashes!

Tune In!!!

I received a very important email update from Healthy Child Healthy World. Please join me and tune in to watch CNN's special, Toxic America!

Wednesday and Thursday, June 2nd and 3rd, at 8pm EST, CNN's Dr. Sanjay Gupta will be airing an eye-opening investigative story: Toxic America. If you care about public and environmental health, it's must-see TV.

Dr. Sanjay Gupta hosts the two-part program, revealing devastating results from a year-long investigation.

Wednesday night highlights “Toxic Towns” and will delve into the environmental health and justice problems plaguing the community of Mossville, Louisiana. Mossville is not an isolated example, but instead a poster child for a broken chemical safety system.

Thursday night highlights the “Toxic Childhood” and features Healthy Child founders, Jim and Nancy Chuda; Scientific Advisor, Dr. Phil Landrigan; and our “A Wake-Up Story” video. This second part of the series reveals the effect toxics have on unborn babies.

Here's what you can do:

• Have your friends over to watch the show on June 2nd and/or 3rd or record the series to share with others in the future.
• Tell other to watch by using these suggested status updates:
• Facebook: Will be watching America’s toxic little secrets revealed by CNN’s Dr. Sanjay Gupta on June 2 & 3 at 8pmEST/5pmPST. If you care about public and environmental health, it’s MUST SEE TV!
• Twitter: MUST SEE TV: CNN special on Toxic America – June 2-3 at 8pmEST/5pmPST – Watch and learn! Plz RT
• Take Action to help prevent these tragedies by emailing your members of Congress and asking them to support a strong Safe Chemicals Act.
• Get your friends to stay involved and informed by having them sign-up for the Healthy Child newsletter.

Please join us in tuning in!

Ear Bud Alert

Here is a quick tip for the day. I read this in Parents Magazine a while back.

Listen up! New research results that frequently using headphones for 30-plus minutes at a time significantly increases the amount of bacteria in the ear. "We think buds raise temperature and humidity in the ear canal, making the environment favorable for bacterial growth, " says study author Chianjay Mukhopadhyay, M.D., of Manipal University, in India. Though generally harmless, the bacteria could lead to infection if the buds irritate your skin enough to tear it, so make sure yours are comfy.

In addition, it can be common for family members to share iPods, etc. It is a good idea for each individual to have their own ear buds. And be sure to sanitize ear buds between uses. I simply spray mine with Clean Well sanitizing spray. It is a quick and easy way to prevent bacteria from building up on those buds. If you have young children, pick up a pair of kid ear phones that are designed just for kids, producing sound in a lower decibel to prevent damage to little ears. It is best if those fit over the ear, and not in it. Check Target or other stores in your area for kid-friendly headphones.

Here's to rockin' out with healthy ears!

I Use Lace on My Face!

When it comes to your skincare regimen, skip the scrub and grab the lace. Lace For The Face, that is! What is it and how do you use it? It is a beautiful little terrycloth washcloth with a lace overlay that is used for daily cleansing with your facewash. It is dermatologist recommended, suitable for sensitive skin, and hypoallergenic.

I bought my Lace For The Face recently at my local health food store and I LOVE it! I use it every other day (though it can be used every day) to exfoliate my skin. It gently sloughs away dead skin, while lifting dirt, bacteria and dead skin cells out of your pours. My skin feels silky smooth and my pours are visibly smaller.

Lace For The Face can be used on your entire body. No need to buy expensive scrubbing products. Use it on your entire body to help with rough skin, sun damage, ingrown hairs, and blemishes. The packaging actually states that you can use it to "spot treat" pimples. Oh how I wish that I no longer dealt with the occasional zit, but I still break out at least...um, once a month. I recently tried using it on my blemish, and it worked. Unlike popping pimples, which is bad for the skin, applying a little bit of pressure with this exfoliating cloth can safely open it up!

I'm done with scrubs. Its just Lace for my face! Find this natural microdermabrasion cloth at your local health food store or go to http://www.lacefortheface.com/.

Package warning: If you have had painful, bleeding, scaring acne, or any other serious or painful skin condition, consult your dermatologist prior to use of any microdermabrasion product. Do not use around eye area."

Here's to beautiful skin, and here's to your health!

Nissan LEAF - Public Drive Reaction

Check out the new Nissan LEAF, a 100% electrical, zero emissions vehicle that seats up to five and boasts speeds up to 90 mph. Click the link below to see what people are saying about it.

Nissan LEAF - Public Drive Reaction

Earth Day Special

I love Green Toys. Green Toys turns recycled milk cartons into adorable, high quality, safe toys. They are BPA free, environmentally friendly, and made in the USA, so you can feel great about buying these awesome toys for the special little ones in your life. Right now, Diapers.com is having a great Earth Day special in support of Healthy Child Healthy World.

Click HERE for details!

Virus, Virus, Go Away!

I must apologize that I am slacking off just a bit lately. A few days before Easter, my little one caught a little bug-a virus, that is. I immediately started loading her up on my Go-To List of natural remedies...and a couple days later she was feeling great. Then I woke up with a nasty sore throat, so of course I too, reached for my Top Immunity Boosters.

I fought off the virus for a couple days, and all seemed just dandy. Ah, but a few days later...it was back with a vengeance! So, I had to change things up a bit. You see, sometimes even your most trusted regimen may not work against all illnesses. If one thing isn't working, you may want to switch it up. Thankfully, I have a lot of natural remedies to turn to. I loaded up on a few super-duper remedies, and within 24 hours, I am now feeling just on the verge of normal.

So add these to my list of favorites...and then add them to yours!

Garlic

Garlic has been used for centuries and is proven to suport the immune and cardiovascular systems. I often cook with garlic, and incorporate it raw into sauces and salad dressings. If you really want to boost your immunity, especially while fighting off those nasty viruses, a little garlic just won't cut it. Unless you want to smell like an Italian kitchen, concentrated garlic tablets are the way to go. I recently found Garlic Factors by Natural Factors. It is a highly concentrated dose of garlic, odor controlled, and enteric coated (which means it will only release in your stomach, and not on it's way down). After taking just one dose, I immediately saw improvement. Keep this one handy at all times!

Olive Leaf Extract

Olive leaf extract has been getting a lot of attention lately. Many natural lifestyle followers have been swearing by it for years. "Medical use of olive leavesdates back to ancient Egypt and is referenced by Hippocrates and now in modern medical texts. Olive leaf is used around the world as a health tonic and powerful antioxidant." It supports a healthy immune system, healthy blood pressure, healthy cardiovascular system, and healthy joints. And it boasts more antioxidant power than Vitamin C, Grape Seed Extract, Vitamin E, Green Tea, and many others. You can buy it in the pill form, but I highly recommend Barlean's Olive Leaf Complex. Barlean's Organic Oils is a trusted source of superb natural products.

Colloidal Silver

Another great immune support getting lots of attention in the health industry. The most popular brand and the only choice for me is Sovereign Silver. It has no odor, almost no flavor, is easily absorbed, and is a safe and effective way to boost immunity. You might be wondering a bit about this one...silver? For more information on how it works, visit www.soverignsilver.info.

UMKA

Once you are sick, boosting your immunity is very important, but it is also nice to have a natural product to sooth those uncomfortable cold symptoms. The sore throat, the cough, congestion, etc. I recently tried Umka Cold Care, by Nature's Way, and I am impressed. Umka is made from Pelagonium sidoides roots and has its origins in traditional Southern African folk medicine. A leading remedy in Europe, Umka works differently than other over-the-counter cold medicines. It doesn't just mask symptoms. It shortens the duration and speeds recovery. And the best part? It is all natural, sugar-free, and absolutely safe for kids.

Being sick is no fun. When you feel the symptoms of an illness coming on, be sure to get lots of rest, hydrate, and boost your immunity. If a sore throat persists, it may be a sign of infection, and you should seek proper medical attention. Always consult a physician or holistic health practitioner before something new and especially before giving it to a child.

Here's to kicking that virus, and here's to your health!

Flashback Friday

Happy Good Friday! Easter is just two days away, and whether you are having a small family gathering or a big feast, here is a salad recipe I posted for Thanksgiving. It's so simple and delicious, a great dish to serve at your table or bring along to a potluck for sharing.

Blue Cheese & Granny Smith Salad

organic mixed baby greens
Granny Smith apple
crumbled blue cheese
candied pecans
balsamic vinegar
olive oil

Use desired amount of ingredients listed. We like our salads hearty, and I often say that we added a little lettuce to our salad :) Make it how you like!

1. Cut desired amount of apple into small chunks
2. Add blue cheese and pecans
3. Toss all ingredients with baby greens, balsamic, and olive oil
4. Add just a bit of black pepper and cinnamon for extra flare (optional)

I often make this salad with raw pecans, or with Trader Joe's lightly sweetened pecans. (I stock up on these when we visit the mainland). But if you want to make them yourself, here is a nice recipe for candied pecans from my favorite gluten-free blog, Elana's Pantry. I made them tonight. I was out of yacon syrup so I used agave nectar. These nuts offer just a hint of sweetness to your salad or enjoy them all by themselves.

Candied Pecans

2 cups pecans
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons yacon syrup (or agave)
½ tsp sea salt

Toss all ingredients together in a large bowl
Place in a pyrex baking dish
Bake at 350° for 15 minutes
Cool and serve

Also, if you are looking for healthier goodies to fill up those Easter baskets, click HERE for a few ideas :)

Here's to great food. Here's to a blessed Easter celebration! Here's to your health!